Wow, San Francisco!! The city where I found my heart, the city of love, now the city of mandated, paid maternity leave!!!!! While other cities including New York and New Jersey offer paid maternity leave, this is the first law mandating the employer pay both maternity and paternity leave (just as important). American women have adapted to going back to work as early as six weeks after birth and that is they work for a “generous” employer. While six weeks is far too early to separate a new mother and infant, it is a step in the right direction. Those first six weeks are physically and emotionally demanding for a new mom. Confronted with healing, lack of sleep, learning to breastfeed, and transitioning into this selfless roll, it is about time the U.S. steps up and recognizes. The postpartum period stretches well beyond six weeks, but the reality is something is better than nothing. I hope this is just the beginning!!!
Neonurse 